Crunchy granola tops meet tender, slightly chewy baked oats with a bright tang from the yogurt swirl. A hint of maple and vanilla keeps these cups comforting without being overly sweet. They hold their shape for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or a light brunch plate. Serve warm with extra yogurt and fresh fruit, or cool and pack for a quick snack.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup, plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp melted butter or neutral oil
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3/4 cup granola (divided; about 1/4 cup reserved for topping)
- 1/2 cup mashed banana or 1/2 cup applesauce (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh berries or sliced fruit (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or use silicone liners.
- In a large bowl, stir together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Whisk the egg with milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and melted butter. If using mashed banana or applesauce, add it now.
- Pour the wet mixture into the oats and stir until the oats are fully moistened. Fold in 1/2 cup of the granola for texture.
- Spoon the oat batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Drop about a teaspoon of yogurt onto the center of each cup and use the back of a spoon to gently swirl it into the top.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup granola evenly across the tops for a crunchy finish.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Let the cups cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm with extra yogurt, maple syrup, and fresh fruit, or cool completely before storing.
Tips or Variations
- Make them dairy-free by using coconut or almond yogurt and your preferred plant milk.
- Swap in chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or fold in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.